Statement from Bishop Erik Pohlmeier on the Death of the Holy Father
Jacksonville, Fla. – With sorrow and gratitude, I join the faithful of the Church and the world in mourning the death of our Holy Father Pope Francis. His life was a gift to the Church and a reflection of Christ’s love lived with humility and devotion.
Jacksonville, Fla. – With sorrow and gratitude, I join the faithful of the Church and the world in mourning the death of our Holy Father Pope Francis. His life was a gift to the Church and a reflection of Christ’s love lived with humility and devotion.
Learning of the Holy Father’s passing gives me pause to reflect on his life and the impact he has had on the Church and the world, and in my own ministry. My years of study at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome shaped my priesthood in the heart of the Church. It was there, in St. Peter’s Basilica, that I was ordained a transitional deacon, standing at the very place where so many have carried on the mission of Christ. Years later under the leadership of Pope Francis I was called to serve as a bishop. His faithful leadership and love for the Gospel have been a source of encouragement in my own ministry, and I am deeply grateful for the example he set.
I am especially grateful for the gift of his 2013 apostolic exhortation, The Joy of the Gospel (Evangelii Gaudium). This teaching of Pope Francis expresses the joy that marked his life and provides beautiful guidance for all who seek to share the faith with others. I have often reflected on his teaching that our salvation should free us from “sin, sorrow, inner emptiness and loneliness.” These interior struggles speak directly to the needs of our time. His call and witness challenge us to identify with Christ as Savior and live as lights for the world.
Pope Francis was a shepherd for all, including those beyond the Catholic Church. His words and witness resonated with people from every background, drawing many to reflect on the presence of God in their own lives. He had a heart for those on the margins, speaking out for the poor, the immigrant seeking safety, the unborn child and the prisoner facing execution. He carried the concerns of those who struggled, including Catholics who felt unseen or alone after divorce. His message was clear: every person is loved by God and worthy of dignity.
As the Church mourns his death, we pray in gratitude for the gift of his life and leadership. May his example continue to inspire us to live with faith, serve with love and seek first the kingdom of God.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace.
+Most Rev. Erik Pohlmeier
Bishop of the Diocese of St. Augustine
A Life of Mercy and Hope: Bishop Pohlmeier Honors Pope Francis
By Lilla Ross
In his homily at the Memorial Mass for Pope Francis on April 24, Bishop Erik Pohlmeier focused on Jesus Christ’s saving work in the Holy Father’s ministry.
In his homily at the Memorial Mass for Pope Francis on April 24, Bishop Erik Pohlmeier focused on Jesus Christ’s saving work in the Holy Father’s ministry.
“While we mourn the loss of our Holy Father, we recognize that he spent his entire life preparing for this moment. Everything was directed to the saving work of Jesus,” he said.
Soon after he was named pope, Pope Francis was asked in a major interview, “Who is Jorge Mario Bergoglio?” He replied, “I am a sinner.” Bishop Pohlmeier noted how this humility pointed to the need for the memorial sacrifice celebrated at every Mass, where “Jesus offers us the Bread of Life, the Eucharist that draws us together.”
Early in his ministry, Pope Francis called for an Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy, highlighting the saving work of Jesus.
“God as Father has a heart of mercy; Jesus as Savior reflects the face of mercy,” Bishop Pohlmeier said. “We are called to constantly reflect on the mystery of mercy. Part of what should define our lives is how much we depend on that mercy.
“It’s the very mercy of God that gives us life. It is by the mercy of God that, while we are born in sin, we are redeemed by the saving waters of baptism. He gives us the sacraments that nourish us and offers forgiveness when we fall short and turn away from God.”
Pope Francis’ death during the Easter season and the Jubilee Year of Hope directs attention to the promise of new life.
“We should be prepared to speak to the hope that defines our life. We are pilgrims of hope. We stand before the Father with a heart of mercy, and Jesus, who reflects the face of mercy. We connect through our prayer with each other and are given the very heart of mercy in the Eucharist itself,” Bishop Pohlmeier said.
To listen to Bishop Pohlmeier’s full homily, click here.
Pope Francis died Easter Monday, April 21, at age 88. Following the funeral Mass, he will be interred at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome. The funeral marks the beginning of the Novendiales, nine days of mourning that include daily Masses for the repose of his soul.